March is National Nutrition Month and this year’s theme is, “Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day.”

So, that might leave you wondering, what exactly does that mean? Or what is “my way?” The intent of the theme is to encourage personalized eating styles and recognize that food preferences, lifestyle, culture, and health concerns all affect our food choices.

The key to success is balance from all food groups. The five food groups include: grains, fruit, vegetables, dairy, and protein. Visit www.choosemyplate.gov to learn more about the food groups and servings sizes.

Here are some tips to challenge yourself, and get on track with balanced eating habits.

Eat breakfast daily.

Commit to eating out less. Pack your lunch rather than heading to a drive-thru.

Limit your sweetened beverages. Drinking one 20-ounce bottle of regular soda daily can amount to 26 pounds of weight gain in one year!

Experiment with new foods and tastes. Set a goal to try at least one new fruit or vegetable per week.

To learn more, check out some the events being offered by Wellness Education during NNM. Visit www.usf.edu/wellness for more information.